The 2012 African Cup of Nations kicked off on Saturday, with co-hosts and debutants Equatorial Guinea getting a last-gasp, dramatic 1-0 win over Libya. The likes of Didier Drogba, Yaya Toure and Demba Ba are chomping at the bit to showcase the quality of football in the African continent, but this year’s edition has a number of recognisable absentees. With Niger and Botswana making their bows in the tournament along with the co-hosts, the likes of Nigeria, Cameroon, South Africa and Egypt have missed out on participation. Despite the sizeable ability of some of the players and teams at the event, there is considerable African talent not competing this year, which could make up quite the team….

GK: Carlos Kameni (Cameroon / Malaga CF) – Once heralded as the shining light of African goalkeepers, Kameni has amassed 63 caps for The Indomitable Lions over his eleven-year international career. The talented shot-stopper had fallen out of favour this season at Espanyol, and secured a move to big-spending and ambitious Andalusian side Malaga during this transfer window. Kameni will look to recapture the form in La Liga that saw him linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs earlier in his career, and have a new start at La Rosaleda.

Back up: Vincent Enyeama (Nigeria / Lille)

LB: Benoit Assou Ekotto (Cameroon / Tottenham) – The sprightly defender has made the left back jersey at White Hart Lane his own in recent seasons, and has increasingly become a more important part of the north London club’s side. Initially slightly unpredictable and nervy after his move from Lens back in 2006, the 27-year-old now has Harry Redknapp’s confidence and has installed a solidarity and consistency into his game. Internationally Assou-Ekotto has made 17 appearances for his country, but will have to wait another two years for the chance to potentially make his African Cup of Nations debut.

Back up – Taye Taiwo (Nigeria / QPR-AC Milan)

RB: Joseph Yobo (Nigeria / Fenerbahce) – Man-mountain defender Joseph Yobo is known for his no-nonsense approach and is currently on loan at Fenerbahce from Everton. The stopper is generally deployed as a central defender but has the versatility to play at full-back; his time at Goodison Park has seen him alternate between both. Captain of Nigeria with 86 caps, Yobo is one of the most experienced and well-respected defenders on the continent; at 31 years of age his chances of playing again in an African Cup of Nations in the future are fading away slightly.

Back up – Ahmed Elmohamady (Egypt / Sunderland)

CB: Sebastian Bassong (Cameroon / Tottenham) – Another Cameroon and Spurs defender, Bassong has failed to live up to his excellent Newcastle form down in London. Despite slipping down the pecking order at the Premier League side and being linked with a move away from the club, the 16-times capped centre half has the ability to compete at a top level if he keeps his head in the game and maintains concentration. Excellent in the air with a turn of pace, Bassong could have enticed potential suitors at the tournament had Cameroon qualified.

Back up – Aurelien Chedjou (Cameroon / Lille)

CB: Stephane Mbia (Cameroon / Marseille) – Admittedly Mbia plays predominantly as an all-action central midfielder, but the 25-year-old has on occasion featured in the backline and has the aptitude to make an excellent defender. The 36-times capped man progressed through the ranks at Rennes, and has made the step up to the Stade Velodrome, where he has looked accomplished and assured for Didier Deschamps’ side.

Back up – Nicolas N’Koulou (Cameroon / Marseille)

RW: Ahmed Musa (Nigeria / CSKA Moscow) – Flying 19-year-old winger Ahmed Musa has announced himself onto the club and international game in spectacular fashion over the last 12 months, staring for Dutch side VVV Venlo before sealing a €5million deal to CSKA a fortnight ago. With pace to burn and a trickery that has tortured countless full backs, Musa will continue his development in the Russian capital and has the potential to be a top-drawer player in the future.

Back up – Victor Obinna (Nigeria / Lokomotiv Moscow)

CM: Michael Essien (Ghana / Chelsea) – The Stamford Bridge battle-axe has not recovered from injury in time to step out with Ghana in the tournament, but has returned to fitness and will start to feature again at Chelsea in January. Persistent knee problems have robbed the Premier League of one of its most dynamic and athletic midfielders over the last two seasons more often than not, but the 52-times capped bruiser will look to get back to the form that made him one of the best players in his position before injuries took their toll.

Back up – Jon Obi Mikel (Nigeria / Chelsea)

CM: Alex Song (Cameroon / Arsenal) – Arguably the most improved player at the Emirates Stadium this season, Song has become an integral member of the north London club’s squad since the summer departure of Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona. Excellent in possession, the 24-year-old gets through a shedload of work in 90 minutes, and is at times charged with stopping opposition sides’ midfield advances single-handedly due to the attacking instincts of his team-mates. Already an excellent player, Song has the ability to be as good as Gunners legend Patrick Vieria should he continue his current path of development.

Back up – McDonald Mariga (Kenya / Inter Milan)

LM: Ryad Boudebouz (Algeria / Sochaux) – Similar to Mbia, attacking midfielder Boudebouz is playing slightly out of position in my dream team, and would be tasked with coming off his wing into a more central role (tactical genius). The Algeria international is slowly but surely gaining the recognition he deserves after emerging as a major talent in Ligue 1. Creative, decisive and energetic, it is only a matter of time before the Stade Auguste Bonal outfit lose their star player to a bigger club; he deserves it and is ready for a step up.

Back up – Steven Pienaar (South Africa / Tottenham)

ST – Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo / Tottenham) – So often the solitary threat in an average Togo side, Adebayor is anything but mediocre and has a record of success at every club he has played at. The sometimes temperamental forward has been key in Spurs’ rise to third in the Premier League, as he continues to showcase the ability of being both a target man and an attacker more than comfortable with the ball at his feet. Quick, strong, lethal in front of goal – Adebayor is comfortably his nation’s top ever goalscorer with 18 international goals, despite only being 27.

Back up – Mohamed Zidan (Egypt / Borussia Dortmund)

ST – Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon / Anzhi Makhachkala) – An African idol of a generation, Eto’o remains one of the most accomplished strikers in world football despite opting to swap Serie A giants Inter for Russian oil tycoons Anzhi, and would quite comfortably slot into some of the best teams in the world, nevermind my African dream team. Deceptively strong, Eto’o has been a handful for international defenders across Spain and Italy for a decade; the majority of the competition’s centre halves will have sighed with relief that the 109-times capped Cameroonian is not participating in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon.

Back up – Obafemi Martins (Nigeria / Rubin Kazan)

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

With the likes of Cameroon, Nigeria and South Africa failing to qualify for this year’s African Cup of Nations, the stage is set for some of the smaller nations to fight for glory. With the tournament to kick into full swing on Saturday with co-hosts Equatorial Guinea taking on Libya, Soccerlens reviews all competitors and their chances of success.

Group A

Equatorial Guinea

Co-host nation Equatorial Guinea have never played in the finals of the competition, and will be spurred on by a favourable draw and home support. With Senegal almost sure to win Group A, Gilson Paulo’s men have a fighting chance of claiming second place again beatable opposition.
Friendly draws against South Africa and Cameroon at the tail-end of 2011 will boost the nation’s spirits; veteran striker Rodolfo Bodipo will be the side’s main attacking threat.

Libya

The Libyan side have done exceptionally well to qualify for the tournament given the political upheaval in the country over the last 12 months, but will go in as underdogs.

The entirety of Marcos Paqueta’s squad ply their trade in their homeland, apart from defensive midfielder Djamal Mahamat, who plays with Portuguese side Braga.

Senegal

Amara Traore’s men are the favourites to win Group A and go into the competition as one of the frontrunners to lift the trophy. The Teranga Lions have won their last five games, and enter the tournament with momentum.

Senegal have a number of players that play for leading European clubs, but Newcastle strike partnership Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse and Lille hitman Moussa Sow will pose a significant threat to all opponents.

Zambia

Zambia will most likely be in a straight shootout with Equatorial Guinea to finish in second place behind Senegal, but have only won one of their last five games leading up to the tournament.

Golden Arrows frontman Collins Mbesuma will lead the line for Herve Renard’s side; the striker has previously played in Europe for Portsmouth, Buraspor and Maritimo.

Group B

Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast’s squad is filled with talent from leading European clubs, and Francois Zahoui has been handed the task of winning the tournament; nothing less will satisfy. Unbeaten in nine games, the Elephants go into the event expecting glory.

The Ivory Coast squad is littered with Premier League stars such as Yaya and Kolo Toure, Didier Drogba, Gervinho, Cheik Tiote and Salomon Kalou, who should have too much quality for the other teams in the group.

Sudan

Sudan have qualified for the African Cup of Nations for only the second time in 35 years, and will be discredited as underdogs in Group B.

The team is captained by 34-year-old midfielder Haitham Mustafa, who has made 120 appearances for his country.

Angola

Having played in the 2006 World Cup, Angola have been an African nation on the rise over the last ten years, and will be fancied to progress through this pool. Unbeaten in six games, Lito Vidigal’s men are famed in Africa for their attacking brand of football.

Angola have a number of players contracted to Portuguese sides, but the best known of their group is Manucho, who at one time represented Manchester United.

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso will be Angola’s main rivals for second place in the pool, with the up-an-coming side progressing over recent years.

A youthful squad filled with players that play predominantly in Europe, Auxerre attacker Alain Traore scored important goals in qualification and is the side’s stand out performer.

Group C

Gabon

Co-hosts Gabon have a tricky task in progressing to the knockout rounds of the competition, and will need to beat either Morocco or Tunisia to make the grade. The team will be buoyed on by enthusiastic home support, and put in a gutsy performance against Brazil in a friendly back in November.

Former Rangers striker Daniel Cousin is the nation’s best-known player, and will look to get the goals to help the hosts get through a difficult group.

Niger

Niger are another country making their first appearance at the tournament, and will be expected to be dealt an early exit.

Moussa Maazou is a key player for the emerging nation; the striker has played for CSKA Moscow, Monaco and Bordeaux and will be asked to find goals for his country.

Tunisia

The 2004 winners will be expected to be in a battle with northern African neighbours Morocco for top spot in Group C, but enter the tournament on the back of inconsistent form.

Most of Sami Trabelsi’s squad are home based, but Hannover defender Karim Haggui adds experience of playing in the Bundesliga and Ligue 1, and will be critical in orchestrating the side’s defence.

Morocco

Morocco are an unpredictable side, and although they have sufficient quality in their squad to do well, must play as a team to succeed. Eric Geret’s men have had an inconsistent build up to the competition, but with a number of excellent players in their team must be considered as one of the favourites for the tournament.

Premier League players Adel Taarabt and Marouane Chamakh will look to fire Morocco to victory, while Udinese defender Mehdi Benatia will be a key figure at the back.

Group D

Ghana

Ghana will fancy their chances in a relatively straight forward Group D, and with only two defeats in their last 13 games should be full of confidence.

Goran Stevanovic has a wealth of talent to pick from, with Marseille brothers Andre and Jordan Ayew the pick of the bunch. Look out for Udinese midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah also, who should form an exciting central midfield partnership with Inter’s Sulley Muntari.

Botswana

Botswana are another country to make their African Cup of Nations bow this year, and it would be a surprise to see the minnows make it out of their group.

With the majority of the squad young and inexperienced, striker Diphetogo Selolwane will harbor the responsibility of getting goals; the 33-year-old has played in South Africa, Denmark and United States during his career.

Guinea

Guinea will look to make the quarter finals of the tournament just like they did in 2004, 2006 and 2008, but enter the competition without a win in their last four fixtures.

27-year-old striker Ismael Bangoura will be charged with getting the side’s goals, and will call upon his experience of playing for Rennes and Dinamo Kiev.

Mali

Mali have only won two of their last seven games, but given the fact that they have a number of key players with experience of playing in Europe, coach Alain Giresse will want his team to make the quarter finals at least.

Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita is the standout player in the Mali squad, while the bulk of the remainder of the squad play in France.

So there you have it; the 2012 African Cup of Nations is set to be an enthralling event, with a number of exciting match ups. Look out for Ivory Coast, Morocco and Senegal, but my pick to lift the trophy is Ghana.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

The performances of the North African national football sides in 2011 have reflected the political actions of the Arab Spring.

The failure of Egypt, the champions of the past three tournaments, to qualify for the 2012 African Cup of Nations (ACN), alongside the absence of regional heavyweights Cameroon and Nigeria, has thrown the tournament wide open.

Egypt’s campaign in particular was a shambles, with defeats to Sierra Leone, Niger and South Africa in the final qualification stage. But 2011 has not been an ordinary year in North Africa. With Egypt’s revolution beginning on January 25 2011 and the Arab Spring in full flow, one could be forgiven for thinking the instability in the country could not have helped its football team, particularly given the continuing uncertainties moving into 2012.

However, the list of qualifiers for the African Cup of Nations has thrown up a number of surprise names, not least Libya and Sudan, as well as (less surprisingly) Tunisia and Morocco. While Tunisia were tournament winners in 2004 after beating Morocco in the final, Sudan have made little impression on the tournament since they won the competition in 1970. Libya has hardly ever registered in African football consciousness, a runners-up spot in 1982 notwithstanding. Alongside Algeria (who just missed out of qualification), all these nations have had significant upheavals and protests during the Arab Spring and in the case of Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, regime change.

It seems implausible that national footballers can remain unaffected by such political turmoil. With national football teams so often projected as a symbol of the nation; and aggressively so in the case of some North African states, could there be a link between the nature of political action and performances on the football field? Is there a case to make that powerful nations can be rocked by revolutions, but smaller and weaker nations can be emboldened and united by them?

So how have these six North African nations fared since the outbreak of their particular versions of the Arab Spring in the past year?

By collating the results from all matches (both competitive and friendly) since the beginning of the Arab Spring political action in each nation and comparing these results against performances from the previous 12 months (or at least eight games in the case of Morocco and Libya to ensure a fair sample size), it seems abundantly clear that almost all of the North African sides, with the dramatic exception of Egypt, have improved their results in terms of average points per match (see table below).

Taken as a whole, these six nations have competed in 53 matches since the start of the Arab Spring, gaining 87 points, with a 45% win ration and an average of 1.64 points per match.

In the 12 months prior to the Arab Spring (or at least eight matches stretching back into 2009 for Libya and Morocco), these same six nations contested 60 matches, but only won 79 points, with only a 33% win ratio and just 1.32 points per match.

Whilst a trend is clear, it is important to look at each country more specifically.

Egypt appears to be the exception to the rule. The country was arguably, up until 2011, the most successful team in African football during the past decade with an unprecedented three straight ACN crowns, boasting seven titles overall and have qualified for every tournament since 1982.

Although the Pharaohs had not begun their qualification campaign well, in the 12 months between their 2010 African Cup of Nations victory and the Egyptian revolution, they were boasting an average of 2 points per match including five straight wins in January 2011. This is even discounting their January 2010 ACN success, which featured 7 straight wins against high quality opposition, and would raise their points per match to a phenomenal 2.39. Their evident fall from grace has been staggering.

Since January 25 2011, Egypt have picked up one solitary win and one draw from five matches, with defeats to South Africa and Sierra Leone ensuring they finished bottom of their qualification group.

The Egyptian revolution was notable for the unity of the population in throwing off the power of President Mubarak. Indeed there was apparent cooperation in protest organisation between the fans of the rival Egyptian teams Al-Ahly and Zamalek, with the latter long regarded as a pro-government club during the Mubarak era. The only public backing to the regime came from a few club managers and Egypt’s national coach Hassan Shehata rather than fans or players.

While the other North African nations move towards new democratic regimes or have gained significant concessions from government as a result of their protests, the future for Egypt appears more convoluted and strained, demonstrated by recent protests against the interim military rulers. The ensuing instability of the post-Mubarak Egyptian nation has been echoed by poor performance on the football field.

This however, is not the general trend. Morocco, Algeria, Sudan and Tunisia have witnessed significant performance improvements since the Arab Spring, while Libya has maintained its strength overall, but has improved dramatically in competitive qualification matches.

“This is for all Libyans, for our revolution”.

So said 39-year old goalkeeper Samir Aboud upon Libya’s astonishing qualification for the 2012 African Cup of Nations, after a draw against Zambia put them though as a best runner-up.

Despite a recent poor run of friendly results, the Libyans are unbeaten in competitive matches since the revolution against Col. Muammar Gaddafi, notching up two wins and two draws to round off a qualification campaign that saw them go unbeaten and concede only one goal.

For a team that was significantly affected by an ongoing civil war, it was an astonishing achievement. Playing on neutral territory with a new flag, strip and anthem, coach Marcos Paquetá summed the mood up by stating the team was now “not only playing for football success but for a new government and a new country”. Even more so when you consider Col Gaddafi’s son, Saadi, ran the Libyan Football Federation and was once captain of the national team. The team had been a symbol of the regime.

It has certainly not been smooth sailing. Former star playmaker Tariq Ibrahim al-Tayib was notably absent from recent matches, following pro-Gaddafi outbursts including reference to dead rebels as dogs and rats. During the conflict there were reports of 17 figures from Libyan football, including four who claimed to be members of the national side, turning up in a rebel-held town and announcing themselves as opponents of the regime.

One of them, Adel bin Issa, the coach of Tripoli’s top club al-Ahly where Saadi Gaddafi used to play, announced he had come “to send a message that Libya should be unified and free”, and he hoped “to wake up one morning to find that Gaddafi is no longer there.”

The new Libyan side, made up from players from all parts of Libya, has the potential to become a powerful new unifying force post-revolution. Their performances thus far and qualification for the African Cup of Nations may represent a good focus for new beginnings as the new nation moves into 2012.

The statistics show that Tunisia, Morocco, Sudan and Algeria have all experienced far better results in 2011 since the beginning of their respective protests or in the case of Tunisia, regime change, as compared to the 12 months preceding the Arab Spring.

Algeria, where protests led to the lifting of a 19-year old state of emergency, had a forgettable 2010, losing 8 matches and achieving an average of 0.86 points per match. Yet in 2011 Algeria won three of five matches and ended qualification on a high, only losing out to Morocco.

Even Morocco, which experienced smaller protests but significant political concessions, saw their performances improve from 1.25 points per match in 2010 to 1.75 in 2011 and finish top of their qualification group.

Sudan, in a year when the country has experienced protest, violence and division with the breakaway of South Sudan, also qualified as a best runner-up behind Ghana in their ACN qualification group. Having played a large number of matches this year, a win ratio of 53% and a points per match of 1.79 is a huge improvement on 2010’s 25% win ratio and 1.13 points per match.

Finally Tunisia, the standout model of the Arab transition to democracy, also saw an improvement in performance from 1.27 points per match in 2010 to 1.75 in 2011 and a comfortable qualification behind Botswana.

“The events at home really stimulated our team and we believe that the players felt greatly liberated after what happened,” (Esperance coach Nabil Maaloul)

While the Tunisian national team were qualifying for international competition, leading Tunisian side Esperance were winning the African Champions League. Players were keen to invoke synergies between revolution and victory on the pitch, with defender Khalil Chammam stating: “One positive thing from the revolution was that, although we suffered a lot, those changes and the suffering made us stronger -mentally and physically.”

As in Egypt and Libya, Tunisian football suffered direct interference politicians before the revolutions. It was no surprise that in all three cases; national leagues were shut down upon the breakout of protests against the regimes. The majority of Libya’s squad was home-based, where league football was suspended in March, while six others play in neighbouring Tunisia, where the league has only recently resumed. It is impossible to separate the fate of national footballers from politics when the impact is so great.

The paths of the North African national sides have not been universally similar. Instead they have in fact tended to replicate the upheavals themselves. Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria have seen liberalising efforts or regime change. It could be argued a new sense of liberalisation and increased freedoms has been epitomised in the successes of these national teams. Certainly in the case of Libya and Tunisia it appears that the political changes have sparked a new found unity, inspiration and rallying call, factors that have seeped through to the national football sides.

Whilst the link may be casual and the statistics do not delve any deeper than top-line numbers, the North African national football teams seem to be reflecting the mood and progress of Arab Spring and their successes are symbolic of energised nations realising their potential. Only in Egypt has the national side not been a flag bearer for success. Rather than being freed from shackles, a powerful footballing nation appears to be more confused and unstable than it was prior to the revolution. In football as in politics, confusion can breed downfall.

You can follow me on Twitter: @matthewlbarrett.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

England

United Move For Canales

Manchester United are looking to swoop in and land highly-rated Racing Santander prospect Sergio Canales. The 18-year-old attacker is wanted by the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City, but Sir Alex Ferguson is set to fly to Spain this week to try to persuade Canales and family to choose United. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: It’d be an impressive capture by United if they can manage to land Canales, considering that they haven’t had nearly as much success with luring Spanish talent as have a couple of their Premier League rivals.

Sunderland Keen On Keane

It looks like Robbie Keane is on his way out of White Hart Lane once again, as Sunderland have had a £9m bid for the Ireland star accepted by Tottenham, according to the News of the World.

Analysis: Last May, Keane and Darren Bent started up front for Tottenham at the Stadium of Light. Oh what a difference seven-plus months make. Things are as crowded as ever up front for Tottenham, so it isn’t a bad move for Keane. Perhaps now Roman Pavlyuchenko will start getting some chances, because it sure doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere anytime soon.

Liverpool Jonesin’ For Jones

There’s no telling who Keane’s move opens up the door up for at Spurs, but according to the Daily Mail, Keane’s move to Sunderland will free up the opportunity for either Liverpool or Birmingham to sign Sunderland’s Kenwyne Jones.

Analysis: Or perhaps Tottenham, because we all know that Harry Redknapp can never have enough strikers. On a more serious note, Jones has been linked with the exit door all month long, and given that Liverpool were reportedly in talks over a move just this past week, it would appear that they’re the likeliest destination.

Though the news that Keane is off to Sunderland could put a spark in Birmingham’s hopes to land Jones, that same Daily Mail report says that if Jones chooses Liverpool, then Liverpool’s Ryan Babel will be off to Birmingham.

Analysis: Well, if anyone needs to move for the sake of regular football, it’s Babel, so he has to be hoping the first couple of dominoes fall favorably. Annnnd breathe.

City Target Double Swoop

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Premier League, Manchester City are looking to make a couple of signings before the window shuts.

One of their prime targets is Parma midfielder McDonald Mariga, who is also at the top of Inter Milan’s wishlist. City have already agreed terms with Parma, and they’re hurrying to get a work permit in time to land the £7m Kenya star before the window shuts. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: I’m sure City fans will be hoping that his name shows up on the January transfer lists between now and tomorrow evening, and not just because of all of the inevitable burger chain-related headlines and jokes that will stem from signing someone with his first name.

City are also set to step up their efforts to outbid Chelsea and land Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson. Not only would a sweetened cash offer help City’s hopes to land Johnson, but so would the offer to loan Johnson back to Boro for the remainder of the season (The People)

Analysis: They’re likely not going to stump up the full amount that Boro want for Johnson, which could prevent this one from getting done in the January window. But it is only a matter of time before he leaves, and City would be a good place for him to land.

Spurs Splash Out For Kaboul

While Keane is set to end his second stint at Tottenham, Younes Kaboul is just returning for his second go-round at the club, as the French defender has sealed a £5m switch from Portsmouth. (The People)

Analysis: The second time hasn’t been nearly as sweet for Keane, but Kaboul returns to Tottenham a much better player than he left, and that’s good news for a squad that needs some steadiness and durability in the center of defense as they try to fight off Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Manchester City for a Champions League place.

Everton Eye Permanent Donovan Deal

Landon Donovan could be set to make a permanent switch across the Atlantic, as Everton are already eying a permanent move for the American attacker after an impressive start to his loan stint. However, any such deal could have to wait until after the World Cup, according to The People’s reports.

Analysis: This looks like the right opportunity at the right time. This was Donovan’s best (and perhaps last) opportunity to make a real splash in a top European league, and he’s doing it so far. Keep it up, and whatever Everton have to pay will be a bargain.

Begovic Leaves Spurs Begging

For answers, that is, after the promising Portsmouth keeper backed out on a move to Tottenham after having a medical and instead decided to sign with Stoke City in a £3m deal. (The People)

Analysis: Taste of their own medicine? That sure didn’t take long. When it comes down to it though, Stoke is the better option, since he’ll get more opportunities than he likely would at Tottenham. Thomas Sorensen could be off soon enough, and the door for Begovic to be Stoke’s long-term #1 could be wide open sooner rather than later.

Moses Moseys On Down To Wigan

Crystal Palace attacker Victor Moses will be taking his act to the Premier League, and it will be with Wigan, who are snapping up the sought-after starlet in a £2.5m deal. (Daily Mail)

Analysis: This is likely the best move for him, as he’s going somewhere he’ll have the chance to earn regular first-team football sooner than he might elsewhere. For what it’s worth, if you check out his Wikipedia page, not everyone’s as happy about the move as he might be.

Duo Duel For Nagy

Fulham and Wolves are battling it out for African Cup of Nations top scorer Mohamed Nagy, who capped a breakout performance by netting an 85th-minute winner in today’s final triumph over Ghana. (The Mirror)

Analysis: This time last month, ‘Gedo’ had just made his debut with the national team. Now he’s their hero, and considering that Egypt won’t be at the World Cup this summer, now may be as good a time as he’ll ever have to seize the opportunity to move to a top league.

Boro Come Knocking For Nakamura

Gordon Strachan is pressing forward with his attempts to turn his Middlesbrough side into a clone of his former Celtic squad, as he’s now eying up a move for Shunsuke Nakamura, who’s now at Espanyol. (Tribal Football)

Analysis: Nakamura hasn’t exactly had a successful start to life at Espanyol, but as much as he might love Gordon Strachan, I don’t think he loves him enough to drop La Liga for the Championship just yet.

Italy

Fiorentina Capture Keirrison

Fiorentina have signed Barcelona striker Keirrison on a two-year loan deal. The option includes a option for a permanent deal for the 21-year-old Brazilian, who is coming off of an unsuccessful loan stint at Benfica. (Goal.com)

Analysis: It would also do them some good to bring in an experienced striker in the wake of the whole Mutu mess, but they were unsuccessful in their attempts to land Sampdoria’s Antonio Cassano. Roman Pavlyuchenko, perhaps? The News of the World says so, but we know he’s not going anywhere.

Lazio ‘Hit’ It Big

Lazio have signed former Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger from Vfb Suttgart. (Sky Sports)

Analysis: Not only does Cristian Ledesma’s impending move to Inter leave a big hole in midfield, but Lazio need reinforcements to help them in their battle to stay in Serie A. Bringing in a player who’s been involved in a survival battle before (with Aston Villa in the 2002/03 season) and has the kind of experience he does will only help their cause.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

With the African Nations reaching its climax in Angola, reigning champions Egypt are the 6/4 favourites to retain their titles followed by Ghana and Nigeria both at 3/1. Whilst Egypt are clear favourites to see off arch rivals Algeria in their semi-final Paddy Power make Ghana just the slimmest of favourites to win their semi-final against Nigeria with the Black Stars 8/5 to win the game in 90 minutes and the Super Eagles 13/8.

An Egypt-Ghana final is the 7/4 favourite, with bookies considering an Algeria-Nigeria line-up the least likely at 7/2.

African Nations Semi Finals

Winner
6/4 Egypt
3/1 Ghana
3/1 Nigeria
7/2 Algeria

Name The Finalists
7/4 Egypt-Ghana
9/4 Egypt-Nigeria
3/1 Algeria-Ghana
7/2 Algeria-Nigeria

Click here to bet and get a FREE £20 BET.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Ivory Coast v Ghana
African Cup of Nations 2010
Friday, January 15 2010
Kick-off: 18:30 (GMT)
Chimandela, Cabinda

Do Or Die Mission For Elephants

After failing to seize three points against Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast know that their destiny in Angola is at stake and any false move in their second group match could prove to be fatal. It will be harmful not only to the country but to the image of the media-glorified star players the team is composed of.

And back home in Abidjan, Didier Drogba and company know they will be in soup with local fans if Ghana halt their progression to the next stage of the African Cup of Nations.

Coach Vahid Halilhodzic had talked about the lack of freshness, low mental strength and porous cohesion of his squad. He assured everybody days before the tournament that he had nicely overhauled the squad and that there was no more cause for fear.

But their first game against Burkina Faso revealed that the Ivorian machine needs more oiling or a complete repair. Ivory Coast’s FA president blasted the team for their lack of fighting spirit and it will be interesting to see how the squad react to such stinging criticism.

Portsmouth’s Aruna Dindane and Kader Keita of Galatasaray may begin the first half as opposed to the line-up of the previous match. They will receive instructions to hold on to the ball and try to dance with it as cleverly as possible in the Ghanaian defence, expecting to obtain a goal, a free-kick or a corner.

Black Stars Full Of Hope

This will be Ghana’s first match of the African Nations Cup. The Black Stars have rested, trained, and watched so many of the surprises so far at the tournament. They need not to be told that anything can happen.

Although plagued with some vital absentees such as Stephen Appiah, Sulley Muntari and John Paintsil, the Ghanaian squad remain dangerous. Unlike the Elephants, Ghana play a more technical and collective football and may not be intimidated by the parade of European top league stars they’ll be confronting on Friday evening.

Coach Milovan Rajevec knows he has a big job cut out for him in this encounter. Risking playing with half a dozen of the last FIFA Under-20 World Cup winners, he is absolutely not counting on experience as a winning factor, but rather a collective play.

Local supporters in Cabinda will surely share their hearts between Michael Essien and Didier Drogba – two sons of Chelsea FC, a widely cherished club in Angola.

With just one group game to go after this one, Ghana will be careful to procure some meaningful advantage against Ivory Coast in order to step onto the field with less panic to face Burkina Faso.

Ghana will play technically, thanks to the new entries, but will that be enough to outmatch the wealth of experience on the Ivorian side?

TEAM NEWS

Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast’s squad is complete once again. No training session injuries have been reported. The FA president Jacques Anoma will be giving a very motivational speech to the players a day before this crucial encounter with Ghana, according to reports.
Squad

Goalkeepers:
Barry Boubacar (KSC Lokeren OV, Belgium), Zogbo Aristide Benoit (Maccabi Netanya FC, Israel), Angban Atchouailou
Vincent de Paul (Asec Mimosas, Ivory Coast.)

Defenders:
Eboue Emmanuel (Arsenal FC, England), Demel Guy-Roland (Hamburger SV, Germany), Tiene Siaka (Valenciennes FC, France), Boka Etienne Arthur (VfB Stuttgart, Germany), Toure Kolo Abib (Manchester city, England), Meite Abdoulaye (West Bromwich Albion FC, England), Bamba Souleman (Hibernian FC, Scotland), Angoua Brou Benjamin (Kispest Honved, Hungary)

Midfielders: Toure Yaya Gnegneri (FC Barcelona, Spain), Zokora Didier (FC Seville, Spain), Fae Emerse (OGC Nice, France), Kone Kouamatien Emmanuel (FC Curtea Arges, Romania), Gosso Gosso Jean-Jacques (AS Monaco, France), Tiote Cheik Ismael (FC Twente, Holland)

Attackers:
Kone Bakari (O. Marseille, France), Keita Abdul Kader (Galatasaray SK, Turkey), Yao Kouassi Gervais (LOSC Lille Metropole, France), Kalou Salomon (Chelsea FC, England), Drogba Didier (Chelsea FC, England), Aruna Dindane (Portsmouth FC, England)

Ghana

Important midfielder Anthony Annan of Rosenborg, Norway, is ruled out of the Ivory Coast clash. He was reported to have sustained a hamstring injury during training session. He could be fit for the match against Burkina Faso on January 19th.

Good news, as injured Michael Essien successfully made it from England to the Ghanaian camp in Cabinda on Tuesday despite the terrible weather conditions in the UK. He has been announced fit for Friday’s match against Ivory Coast.

Squad

Goalkeepers:
Richard Kingston (Wigan, England), Daniel Agyei (Liberty Professionals, Ghana), Philemon McCarthy (Hearts of Oak, Ghana)

Defenders: Hans Adu Sarpei (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Samuel Inkoom (Basel, Switzerland) Eric Addo (Roda JC, Holland) Isaac Vorsah (TSG Hoffenheim, Germany) Mensah Jonathan (Granada, Spain), Lee Addy (Bechem Chelsea, Ghana) Harrison Afful (Esperance, Tunisia)

Midfielders: Ibrahim Ayew (Zamalek, Egypt) Michael Essien (Chelsea, England) Anthony Annan (Rosenborg, Norway), Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu (Sampdoria, Italy), Opoku Agyemang (Al Sadd, Qatar) Kwadwo Asamoah (Udinese, Italy) Moussa Narry (Auxerre, France) Andre Ayew (Arles-Avagnon, France)

Attackers: Matthew Amoah (NAC Breda, Holland) Asamoah Gyan (Rennes, France), Dominic Adiyiah (Fredrikstad FK, Norway) Haminu Draman (Locomotiv Moscow, Russia), Osei Ransford (FC Twente, Holland)

PLAYERS TO
WATCH

Ivory Coast

Didier Drogba remains the veritable scorer of the Ivorian team. Analysts say he could have netted all the balls Bakary Kone missed against Burkina Faso. His presence in any match brings panic and extra-caution in the defensive area, and he is capable of converting any cross into the back net. He was nicely marked by Burkina Faso’s Madi Panandetiguiri last Monday. Let’s see how far and well the Ghanaian defence will take care of him.

Ghana

A.C. Milan-bound Dominic Adiyiah from the FIFA Under-20 World Cup squad brings terror to every box area. He was a top scorer of the FIFA junior tournament and people say he might be the revelation of this AFCON. Some critics say he lacks experience and what it takes to excel in high level matches. However, he’s one to watch. He might be the next Samuel Eto’o.

PREDICTION

Both teams will enter the field with much pressure on their shoulders. And much of the work will rest on their tacticians. Every minute and segment needs to be accurately managed. The Ivory Coast will resume with ultimate speed and Ghana will need to bring down the tempo and try to impose moderation, which might not hold for long.

Ivory Coast 2 – 2 Ghana

Kingsley Kobo, Goal.com

Also see: How to watch Angola 2010 live online.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Angola v Malawi
Thursday, January 14.
Kick-off: 20:30 CET

Malawi are already dreaming of a place in the quarter-finals of the African Nations Cup as they meet tournament hosts Angola.

A 3-0 victory over World Cup-bound Algeria in their opening match sent the Flames to the top of Group A, with a two-point cushion over their nearest challengers.

For the soft spoken Kinnah Phiri, his side’s victory over Algeria serves as a morale boost going in to the crucial game against the hosts, who have had a disappointing start. Another three points could see them become the first team to progress to the last eight.

Angola have a point to prove to their supporters after throwing away a four-goal lead in their group opener against Mali. Just when it seemed easier to win than to lose, Angola fell apart, sharing the spoils with a Mali side who came back to make it 4-4 in the final 12 minutes.

Two goals in stoppage time snatched an unexpected draw for the Malians, and the Black Antelopes must cut out their defensive errors against Malawi if they are to keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

In contrast, Malawi go into this match in confident mood, knowing that they won convincingly against opponents they were expected to be stretched against. The three points in this match would bring them closer to progressing whilst avoiding the top team from another group, so long as Mali do not mount another last minute comeback in the final match of the group.

Angola

Angolan coach Manuel Jose is sweating over the fitness of central defender Dede (muscle injury) and the midfield maestro Gilberto (knee). Otherwise, after that disappointing game against Mali, the coach will certainly ring the changes. Double goalscorer in the last game, Flavio, is set to lead from the front again and hope the backdoor will be tightly shut this time.

It is clear that Angola need to win Thursday’s showdown against Malawi because a loss will almost certainly result in their elimination, unless they win their final match against Algeria and pray that Mali also lose against Malawi.

Star Player

Stocky striker Flavio scored a brace against Mali and will look to continue where he left off in the last game. Home fans always look up to the experienced striker and he knows what great expectations the country has of him.

Malawi

After a brilliant display against Algeria, Malawi are the most motivated of the two sides. Malawi coach Kinnah Phiri lost his temper when the Malawian Flames were denied entry into a training ground owned by local police side and used by both Angola and Malawi in preparation for the tournament.

The Malawians were reportedly prevented from disembarking from their team bus by the police because the Angolan national team were apparently still training. But after the Angolans had departed in their bus, Malawi were still stopped from getting off their bus and Phiri blew his fuse.

The coach is expected to keep the same team that gave Algeria a hiding as they aim to progress to the next round.

Star Player

Joseph Kamwendo is an important players for the Flames. Popularly known as ‘Shakira’ because of his silky twists and turns reminiscent of the Spanish popstar, Kamwendo had a disappointing game against Algeria by his standards. This game against the hosts is the right platform to show what a marvel he is to watch, as he can do so much with the ball.

Angola v Malawi Prediction

Angola owe it to the home fans after a disappointing showdown against Mali and they certainly will have a go at Malawi from the first whistle. Whilst Malawi are the most pumped up of the two sides, this will be a tight encounter.

Angola 1-1 Malawi

Clyde Tlou, Goal.com

Also see: Africa Cup of Nations 2010 Fixtures & How to watch Angola 2010 live online.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Get a map of Africa and study the west coast of the continent. You’ll notice that between Angola and South Africa is the country of Namibia. Squint a bit closer and look further up the map and you’ll notice, between The Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo is a small area of land labelled as ‘Angola enclave’.

This is the now infamous Cabinda region, where yesterday’s attack on the Togo team bus that left at least three dead took place.

The point of this slightly sarcastic and quick geography lesson is to show that Cabinda is a long way away from South Africa. The distance is somewhat similar as London to Moscow. Geographically, what happens in an unstable enclave near the Congo should have absolutely no effect on the forthcoming World Cup in the Rainbow Nation.

South Africa does have problems with crime and safety. There are many questions and issues about the hosting of a tournament on the size and scale of the World Cup that need to be answered. But to conclude that this attack in Cabinda can be linked to South Africa, where England cricket fans are currently enjoying seeing the Three Lions maintain a 1-0 lead in the test series, is disingenuous to say the least.

Many football writers, pundits and managers, such as Phil Brown, have suggested the Togo shooting raises questions for the World Cup. It doesn’t. It’s like suggesting Serie A, or even the Premier League, should have been suspended while the Balkans conflict was ongoing. Comparing South Africa to Angola falls into the lazy old cliche of suggesting all Africa is the same. To be clear: it is a continent, not a country.

The Cabinda Conflict

To understand yesterday’s horrific attack on the Togo team bus requires a small amount of understand and context of the ongoing politics of the region. As with many conflicts around Africa, much of it comes down to natural resources, but there are also ethnic considerations as well.

For Angola, the 2010 African Cup of Nations was meant to be a matter of pride, showing off a country that, at the turn of the decade, was still in the grips of a long and bloody civil war, which only ended in 2002. The fighting in Cabinda went on much longer.

In 2006 the Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC) signed a peace accord with Angola but, as Just Football reports, FLEC is still active in the region and has recently discussed a merger with other rebel groups. FLEC also has a history of targeting high-profile foreigners.

Most of the small Cabinda region is jungle, but the area itself is very oil rich and contains a significant proportion of Angola’s total oil reserves. The Cabinda opposition groups regularly complain that the region does not see as much of this money as it deserves, while the Angolan government has constantly aimed to assert its authority on the region.

Indeed, just over a month ago Angolan government minister Antonio Bento Bembe announced that FLEC, as a group, no longer existed and that Cabinda, as a region, was safe. Such words were always likely to antagonise rebels, especially with such a high profile event taking place.

Tom Dunmore at Pitch Invasion has noted that Angola itself is no more dangerous than you’d expect it to be and the British Foreign Office notes ‘most visits to Angola are trouble free’. Even Cabinda’s capital city, also called Cabinda, is also safer than the majority of the region due to the oil money, but the American State Department’s travel advice warns against traveling to Cabinda’s northern region, which is incredibly dangerous.

With this background, it’s easy to understand why the attack took place. But question is how could it have happened?

An avoidable disaster?

With the conflict in and around Cabinda, the spotlight has to fall upon the Angolan authorities’ decision to stage group games in the Cabinda region. Along with Togo, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Ghana were all due to play there. These are teams that contain several globally recognisable stars.

Given FLEC’s history attacking high-profile targets, it seems strange that a region with an active, armed rebel movement was seen as an appropriate place to host African Cup of Nations games. Perhaps Angola wanted to show to the world that they were in control in Cabinda. If the venue was selected solely to prove a political point, then this is a shocking decision that, as we have seen, jeopardised the safety of those involved.

But there’s a further rather large question here: just why were Togo driving to Cabinda City via one of the more dangerous areas of the region, when the official advice was to fly to the Angolan capital, Luanda, and travel from there.

Geographically, Togo’s decision to travel by road made sense. Their training camp was in the Republic of Congo and a road journey is the most direct and logical way to reach Cabinda. But this does not bring security concerns into the equation. Surely it’s inconceivable that the squad was not, at the very least, briefed on the security situation.

Then there is the confusing statements from the Togolese FA and the Angolan authorities that they were unaware of the squad’s plans to travel by road. We know that the Sparrow Hawks’ bus was met by a security detail upon entering the region, so clearly somebody was aware of how the players were arriving.

It also wouldn’t be a surprise if the Togo squad and their football authority had engaged in one of their regular fallings-out. Togo’s appearance at the 2006 World Cup was overshadowed by a row over the payment of bonuses. The players and the Tologese FA are not on the best of terms. Was this a reason for their unusual travel arrangements?

This horrible, sickening attack has overshadowed what should have been a joyous occasion for Angola. Yet it’s also clear that this is a tragedy that was avoidable.

The future of the tournament

At the time of writing, it seems certain that Togo have pulled out of the tournament, a decision that you can’t blame them for. They’ve witnessed friends and colleagues gunned down. It puts football into perspective and nobody would expect them to want to play after the attack.

Questions have also been raised about whether the tournament should continue. Kartik Krishnaiyer at Set Piece Analysis has called for this year’s African Cup of Nations to be cancelled. But, back at Pitch Invasion, Tom Dunmore notes that both England and the United States have experienced terror attacks before major sporting events and have carried on, in defiance.

It’s easy to write this sitting in the relative safety of London, and I haven’t just seen colleagues killed in front of me, but I believe the tournament should continue, although the games in Cabinda should be moved.

The tournament can still showcase the best of African football, and Luanda is more secure than Cabinda. And to capitulate now shows those who committed the attack that their actions were successful.

If there are overriding security concerns, then by all means call it off. But if it is simply a case of moving games from Cabinda and stepping up already-high security then it should go ahead. The spirit of football should not be defeated.

But, to finish, football should be a matter of joy. It is a game that has the potential to unite countries that desperately need hope. There will always be rivalries and, yes, violence. But no game is worth the life of a player, coach, bus driver, or fan. It should be a sport that brings people together not, as some have done, used it to settle a score, be it African politics, or tribal club loyalties.

Our thoughts remain with those were were injured or killed, their friends and their families.

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

The 27th edition of African Cup of Nations will kick off on Sunday in Angola with the hosts taking on Mali. Ivory Coast are under enormous pressure to finally deliver the trophy to the nation, while Egypt will be aiming for a historic third consecutive title. Here’s a closer look at all the teams involved and their chances in the continent’s most prestigious tournament.

Group A

Angola

Previous participation: 4 times (best result quarter-final 2008)
Result in Ghana 2008: quarter-final
Manager: Manuel Jose (Portugal)
Star player: Manucho (Real Valladolid)

As hosts, there no doubt has to be some kind of pressure to perform well. Especially with reaching the quarter-finals last time out, which was seen as a bit of a surprise, even though the team were part of the World Cup 2006. A lot will depend on Manucho. The former Manchester United player is a great force at this level and always seems to reserve his best for international stage. He was a star in 2008 and he’ll have be starring again for the nation to repeat their 2008 success. I believe home support will take Angola through from the group stage.

Mali

Previous participation: 5 times (best result runner-up 1972)
Result in Ghana 2008: group stage
Manager: Stephen Keshi (Nigeria)
Star player: Frederic Kanoute (Sevilla)

Surprisingly Mali hasn’t been mentioned when there’s been talk about potential favorites for the tournament. Possibly due to memories of the 2008 campaign, were Mali were touted as the ones most likely to prevent Ivory Coast from winning it. But as we know, both failed. For a team boasting quality through out their squad not getting past the group stage would be a failure, but I think Mali have learned from past mistakes and can make it further this time.

Algeria

Previous participation: 13 times (best result winner 1990)
Result in Ghana 2008: didn’t qualify
Manager: Rabah Saadane (Algeria)
Star player: Karim Ziani (Wolfsburg)

Don’t really know what to expect from Algeria. The nation of course made it to South Africa 2010, but it’s their first appearance at the Cup of Nations since 2004. Their team ethic is top notch and Ziani a wonderful player, but I fear the focus might not quite be there and Algeria won’t get past the group stage.

Malawi

Previous participation: 1 (group stage 1984)
Result in Ghana 2008: didn’t qualify
Manager: Eli Cohen (Israel)
Star player: Essau Kanyenda (KAMAZ, Russia)

This being their only second ever appearance at this stage, Malawi really are an unknown quantity, but in Cohen they’ve got an experienced manager. The Israeli has bags of experience from working at his home nations biggest clubs. Kanyenda is one of the few players from the Malawi squad, who plays in Europe, so you’d expect him to deliver the goods alongside Chiukepo Msowoya (APR FC, Rwanda), who was the top scorer in qualifying with 6 goals. It’s more of a learning curve for the nations though. You’d think they aren’t no pushovers and could snatch a point, but it’s nearly mission impossible to get out of the group.

Group B

Ivory Coast

Previous participation: 17 times (best result winner 1992)
Result in Ghana 2008: 4.
Manager: Vahid Halihodžic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Star player: Didier Drogba (Chelsea)

Of course the team, who everybody will be looking forward to seeing and expect them to win, but will they win? It was the same situation two years ago, but Ivory Coast got knocked out in the semis by eventual winners Egypt and also lost the 3rd place match to Ghana. Drogba is again the man, who everybody pin points and rightly so as the man is an icon for not only the team, but for the nation as a whole, but I suggest you to also look out for Gervinho. The Lille player has been in superb form this season and could out to be the dark horse in the Elephants well known squad. Getting through from the group shouldn’t be a problem, after that anything can happen. I tip Ivory Coast to take a step further and finally reach the final. It will be seen if they can then add to their 1992 glory.

Ghana

Previous participation: 16 times (best result winner 4 times)
Result in Ghana 2008: 3.
Manager: Milovan Rajevac (Serbia)
Star player: Michael Essien (Chelsea)

At first glance you could confidently say Ghana are amongst the possible favorites, but injuries and bad climate in the dressing room, make them a unstable team. Due to injuries there are now 8 U-20 World Champions 2009 involved, so you could also say that the team lacks experience. But it ain’t all doom and gloom, latest news say Essien has returned to full training and the Chelsea man will now have perform twice as good, with his fellow midfield general Sulley Muntari left out of the squad. Think they’ll get through from the group, but not any further.

Burkina Faso

Previous participation: 6 times (best result 4. 1998)
Result in Ghana 2008: didn’t qualify
Manager: Paolo Duarte (Portugal)
Star player: Jonathan Pitroipa (Hamburg)

Burkina Faso are a team with great potential. Pitroipa is only one of many young players playing in European top league’s. The team also boasts a clinical finisher in Moumouni Dagano (Al-Khor, Qatar), who was the top scorer of the entire qualifying campaign with 12 goals. Ivory Coast and Ghana are tough nuts to crack, but I think Burkina Faso will give at least one a scare and will fight for the 2nd qualifying place.

Togo

Previous participation: 6 times (best result group stage)
Result in Ghana 2008: didn’t qualify
Manager: Hubert Velud (France)
Star player: Emmanuel Adebayor (Man City)

Just like Angola, Togo didn’t take part of Ghana 2008, but they made it to the last World Cup and they also rely very much on one player. Emmanuel Adebayor has to bang the goals in if Togo wants to have any chance of fighting with their neighbours Burkina Faso and Ghana for a place in the quarter-final stage. I feel in the end, they won’t manage it though, the side just lacks quality to be competitive.

Group C

Egypt

Previous participation: 21 times (best result winner 6 times)
Result in Ghana 2008: winners
Manager: Hassan Shehata (Egypt)
Star player: Mohamed Zidan (Borussia Dortmund)

A lot of egos have been cut from the Egyptian team, so Mohamed Zidan finally gets a chance to shine. The 28-year old also played a major part securing the 2008 success and as mentioned before, the team will be now aiming for a historic 3rd consecutive title. Everything looks perfectly set, the team doesn’t have the World Cup 2010 to worry about. And like their record shows, they just always seem to win this! It’s incredibly tough in this years competitions, but I back the Pharaohs to reach at least the semis.

Nigeria

Previous participation: 15 times (best result winners twice)
Result in Ghana 2008: quarter-final
Manager: Shaibu Amodu (Nigeria)
Star player: Yakubu (Everton)

Nigeria have always been there or there abouts in the Cup of Nations with three 3rd place finishes and one runner-up position from the last five tournaments. Now they boast a very evenly balanced team with youth and experience. Nwankwo Kanu will be taking part of his 6th Cup of Nations, while John Obi Mikel will be the key in midfield. Qualification was rough with the team only getting through by a late-late goal, but will the players now shine in the final tournament? Getting past the group stage shouldn’t be a problem, luck will play a big part after that and if the Flying Eagles are lucky, a place in the final would be well deserved. Amodu has been the mind behind all the past success, he knows the way to success.

Benin

Previous participation: 2 (Best result group stage)
Result in Ghana 2008: group stage
Manager: Michel Dussuyer (France)
Star player: Stephane Sessegnon (PSG)

Benin’s reliance on Sessegnon is ever greater than Angola’s for Manucho or Togo’s for Adebayor. The PSG man has to be on top form if Benin want to have any dreams of surpassing their previous 2 campaign’s, which ended with the group stage. They’ve so far lost all their matches at the Cup of Nations finals, this year they’ll break this series, but it probably isn’t enough to reach the quarter-finals.

Mozambique

Previous participation: 3 times (best result group stage)
Result in Ghana 2008: didn’t qualify
Manager: Martin Nooij (Netherlands)
Star player: Simao (Panathinaikos)

Mozambique are a very interesting team in a sense that a few players, who played in the nations last appearance in the Cup of Nations finals in 1998, are still part of the squad. But it also tells you another side of the story, there just aren’t enough quality players in the country to be successful. A respectable, but not very successful campaign ahead of them.

Group D

Cameroon

Previous participation: 15 times
Result in Ghana 2008: runner-up
Manager: Paul Le Guen (France)
Star player: Samuel Eto´o (Inter Milan)

Cameroon are also a team, who’ve been weakened by injuries, but they have a luxury of being the only team in Africa, who actually has a top goalkeeper. That man is Espanyol’s Carlos Kameni. He and the defence have to perform to get the full potential out from a solid midfield and Eto´o. Le Guen is a good manager and he could mastermind a good finish here. Semi-finals as a minimum in my opinion for the Indomitable Lions.

Tunisia

Previous participation: 13 times (best result winner 2004)
Result in Ghana 2008: quarter-final
Manager: Faouzi Benzarti (Tunisia)
Star player: Issam Jemâa (Lens)

Tunisia look a certainty to follow Cameroon through from the group here. The team suffered heart ache of missing out on the World Cup 2010, this tournament is a great opportunity to ease the pain. It will be seen if they can also get further from the quarter-finals. I have my doubts, because while the team is made up of good players it lacks a leader.

Zambia

Previous participation: 13 times (best result third 1996)
Result in Ghana 2008: group stage
Manager: Herve Renard (France)
Star player: Collins Mbesuma (Moroka Swallows, South Africa)

Former Portmouth player Mbesuma is a controversial character, who has problems with discipline, but he’s performed at this stage before and will now also be looked as a key. Zambia are a regular at the finals, but they rarely make it past the group stage, same is expected this time.

Gabon

Previous participation: 3 (best result quarter-final 1996)
Result in Ghana 2008: didn’t qualify
Manager: Alain Giresse (France)
Star player: Daniel Cousin

Giresse has been Gabon manager since 2006 and built a good team capaple of surprises. The squad is almost entirely made up of players playing in Europe with Hull City’s Daniel Cousin being the biggest name. This tells you Giresse, and Gabon football as a whole, is heading to the right direction, but they won’t just make it this year.

So a lot to look forward to. African Cup of Nations always provides great emotions for the viewers with the local atmosphere and attacking football being played. This years competition seems to be to most competitive one of recent times. There are at least 6 teams capable of winning it and there’s always surprises in stalled. Whatever happens though, it’s a great appetiser for this years World Cup in South Africa and we might even see the future winners in action here. No doubt the team who triumphs on 31 January will also be the continent’s biggest hope of delivering the World Cup in the summer.

Also See:

Angola 2010 Predictions
• Angola 2010 Fixtures
• How will Angola 2010 affect Ligue 1? (all Angloa 2010 news here).
• Angola 2010 Shirts
• Premier League stars going to Angola 2010

From Soccerlens.com - Football News

Gunmen opened fire with machine guns on a bus carrying Togo’s football team to the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola, wounding several players.

Officials say the shooting occurred in the Angolan oil-rich territory of Cabinda, where rebels have been fighting for independence. The Angolan government called the incident an “act of terrorism”. There are reports of serious injuries. Togo is due to play its first game in Cabinda on Monday.

Manchester City striker Emmanuel Adebayor was on the bus but is unhurt. In a statement, Manchester City said Adebayor had been “shaken by the terrible events” but was “unharmed”.

The bus was travelling to Cabinda from the squad’s training ground in the Republic of Congo when the shooting happened.

“This was an act of terrorism,” Cabinda affairs minister Bento Bembe told Reuters news agency. However Africa Cup of Nations officials described the attackers as armed robbers. Angola had dismissed concerns about staging games in Cabinda prior to the tournament.

Togo striker Thomas Dossevi told France’s RMC radio that several players were “in a bad state”.

“We were machine-gunned, like dogs,” he said. “At the border with Angola – machine-gunned! I don’t know why. I thought it was some rebels. We were under the seats of the bus for 20 minutes, trying to get away from the bullets.”

The identities of those injured – who also included team staff – are not known.

Togo are due to play Ghana, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast in their group matches. Their first game is against Ghana.

Midfielder Alaixys Romao told RMC Togo were now likely to pull out of the 16-nation tournament.

“No-one wants to play,” he said. “We’re not capable of it.

“We’re thinking first of all about the health of our injured because there was a lot of blood on the ground.”

From Soccerlens.com - Football News